Government is investing $225,000 towards a building project by L’Arche at Iron Mines, Inverness Co. that will create an accessible setting for Nova Scotians with disabilities to sell produce, artwork and crafts.
“This funding will help more Nova Scotians with disabilities to gather, to meet, to perform. Our Culture Action Plan launched this year supports inclusion and creating spaces where creativity can thrive for all Nova Scotians,” said Acadian Affairs and Francophonie Minister Michel Samson on behalf of Communities, Culture and Heritage Minister Tony Ince and Community Services Minister Joanne Bernard. “This funding will help more Nova Scotians with disabilities build more inclusive lives within the community.”
The 3,800 square foot space, known as The Gathering Place, will allow L’Arche to move from an aging wood structure and host functions in a barrier-free area.
“Having a spacious, fully accessible hall for meetings, concerts, plays, and extensive training and formation programs will make a huge difference for L’Arche Cape Breton and the wider community,” said community leader Mukthar Limpao. “It helps us open people’s hearts to the gifts of men and women with intellectual disabilities and to continue to foster a culture of growth and learning beyond the L’Arche community.”
The centre will welcome other agencies that support people with disabilities and is centrally located so that people will not have to drive long distances to rented facilities for events. L’Arche Cape Breton was founded in 1983. It is a community where men and women with intellectual disabilities can work together in a more humane society.
The provincial contribution to this project is in addition to funds raised by the Ark Community Initiatives Society and a federal contribution.
Source: Release